It's kinda cool that my birthday coincides with the start of a new year. (thanks for reminding me, Sarah)Aside from the fact that most people, including myself, are tired and/or hungover on the 1st and back to work on the 2nd, it's an opportunity to reflect on the past and set goals for the future. I'm big on lists and making plans. Most of the time I am successful at seeing my plans through to fruition, other times those items remain on my to-do list, never getting completed. I'm at the point in my life where I am not so troubled by those things that I don't complete. (not entirely true...)Either it's not that important for me to finish, or it will get done at the right time. Don't get me wrong, I will get that shit done, I promise. At least the stuff I really care about. (the burden of being a highly productive individual)This past year has brought great opportunity for growth and development, both personally and professionally. I designed my first house (thank you, Karen)and continue to work for myself (thank you, Brendan) in order to eliminate that uncomfortable dynamic between employer/employee. I represent myself. I do work that inspires me and my clients. None of the messy, unnecessary interpersonal crap that can occur in an office. I'm a communicator. I believe in sharing thoughts, ideas and have no problem with critical analysis of my work. On a personal note, I have the benefit of being able to work at home, allowing me to play a more active role in my children's lives. There were times in the past when I worked full-time and utilized a lot of childcare. This served a important purpose, but made it difficult for me to spend quality time with my kids during the week and balance the work/mom/spouse/homemaker/me role. From the world of the non-profit, I love being President of the Board for Mountain Area Preservation and while it doesn't provide a source of income, it does fill my desire to make this world a better place. Our staff is awesome (thank you, Alexis and welcome Haley!)and I am honored to be a part of taking this organization to a place of greater recognition and success.This year brought an end to my time as the Truckee Representative for the Nevada County First Five Commission. I learned so much about a field that I knew so little. (children ages 0-5 and their caregivers/educators) I met incredible people who work daily to change the lives of those who need extra support, whether financially or emotionally. On a physical level, I started Crossfit in October and feel as strong as I did in my 20s. Yes, I drank the KoolAid and it has changed my life. The results are incredible. I started out hanging from the chin-up bar wondering if I would ever be able to do a pull-up. After a few months I can do 6. Soon I hope to do 10. If a person is going to be addicted to anything, it may as well be strength building exercise. My professional goal for 2014 is to invest more time in my design business and find places to sell my mirrors. I'm ready for Colorburst Mirrors to take off and be a sustaining source of income.I'm hopeful from a personal perspective that this next phase of my life brings more self-assurance, resilience and time laughing with my family and friends. Tomorrow I will share some little bits o' honey from the last 40 years.....adieu